Criminal Defense: Misdemeanors: Underage Consumption

Underage alcohol consumption and/or possession is one of the most common criminal charges for young people in Ohio. Knowing that it’s common, however, does not help that young person facing punishment in court and a criminal record. If you hope to avoid or reduce those consequences and protect your record, contact Attorney Jeffrey G. Edleman in Amherst, Ohio. We represent clients who have been charged with underage consumption or possession in all municipal courts within Lorain County (Avon Lake, Lorain, Oberlin, Vermilion, Elyria) and some municipal courts outside of Lorain County.

Enforcement Of Under Age Drinking Laws

Law enforcement has little tolerance for underage drinking. If you are under 21 and get caught possessing or consuming alcohol in public, expect the law to be enforced, even on college campuses where underage drinking offenses at fraternity or sorority houses are often prosecuted. An isolated incident due to a lapse in judgment can easily become a criminal case with significant consequences.

Various Charges For Under Age Drinking

Underage drinking is known by multiple titles in Ohio, including “underage alcohol consumption”, “underage alcohol possession”, “prohibition”, “underage intoxication”, “offense involving underage persons”, and “certain acts prohibited”. Ohio law generally prohibits people under age 21 from purchasing, possessing, or consuming alcohol. The law also makes it illegal for underage persons to be under the influence of alcohol in a public place. Cities throughout Ohio also have similar laws prohibiting the purchase, possession and consumption of alcohol for people under 21.

Penalties For Under Age Drinking Violations

Ohio law classifies underage drinking as a first degree misdemeanor. The potential sentence for an underage drinking conviction includes a potential jail term up to six months, a fine up to $1,000 plus court costs, alcohol counseling, community service, and probation. In addition, a conviction is a permanent criminal record that may affect a person’s education and employment opportunities.